Geneva show: Lambo Aventador rockets past 350km/h

LAMBORGHINI’S already blindingly quick Aventador has ascended into the 350km/h-plus stratosphere thanks to a dizzying mix of more power, less weight and better aerodynamics.

Dubbed the LP 750-4 Superveloce (for super fast, naturally), and due out in Europe from the middle of this year, the Geneva motor show two-door coupe supercar is the first example of a model that has undergone a focussed power-to-weight improvement regime designed to make it the company’s fastest-ever vehicle.

Increased use of carbon-fibre and other lightweight materials means 50kg has been saved, while a tweaked version of the existing 6.5-litre naturally aspirated V12 sees power jump from 515kW to 552kW at a heady 8400rpm.

And while the 690Nm torque total remains the same, there is now a plumper torque curve and a new top set at 5500rpm, with a red line rising to 8500rpm, to significantly boost low-to-mid-range responses.

This is possible via optimised variable valve timing and intake systems, as well as reduced back-pressure and a lighter four-pipe exhaust. The upshot is 0.1 seconds shaved off the 0-100km/h sprint to 2.8 seconds.

Power and torque continue to be relayed to all four wheels via Lamborghini’s ISR seven-speed automated manual transmission, working upon a permanent Haldex Generation IV electrically controlled coupling set-up, aided by a self-locking diff out back and a three-setting Drive Select mode taking in Strada, Sport and track-focussed Corsa conditions.

Improving downforce by 170 per cent and airflow to the tune of 150 per cent for better handling with more precise turn-in characteristics, combined with greater stability properties was a major challenge for the SV team, achieved through the fitment of a larger rear spoiler with three-position adjustment capability, as well as a completely redesigned nosecone with more protruding front spoiler and elongated front guards.

Larger front air intakes also help improve brake cooling and thus stopping performance.

Additionally, the aerodynamics underneath the vehicle benefit from a rear diffuser and the fitment of vertical underbody fins.

To help get the LP 750-4 to its new 1525kg weight, carbon-fibre has been used in the doors, rocker panels, front guards, rear wing, air intakes, inner roof (ceiling) and seat frames, while some noise insulation, carpets and the whole infotainment system have been ejected – however the latter can be reinstalled as a no-cost option.

Taking advantage of this, the Italians have fitted adaptive dampers known as Magneto Rheological Suspension for improved handling and ride characteristics, along with a road-speed dependent variable steering ratio system dubbed Lamborghini Dynamic Steering that is said to greatly assist in low-speed manoeuvrability.

New lightweight forged alloys (in 20- and 21-inch diameters front and rear respectively) can be optioned with racecar-style central locking mounts, and wear Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Braking is by carbon ceramic brakes.

Along with more carbon-fibre panels, the cabin sports a redesigned instrument cluster featuring a new TFT screen brandishing brighter colours and a G-force indicator, while uniquely trimmed Alcantara and leather swathe the revised seats.

Finally, the LP 750-4 SV introduces a special colour (Rosso Bia) as the hero hue, with five further colours available, as part of what the company calls “virtually unlimited options”.

Pricing in Europe starts at nearly €327,190 ($A468,000), while in Australia, cashed-up buyers will pay $882,650, plus on-road costs, which is a $121,150 premium over the regular $761,500 Aventador LP700-4.

Launched four years ago, the Aventador series in both coupe and Roadster convertible guise has been the most successful V12-powered Lamborghini in the firm’s 52-year history of building cars.

"The new Aventador Superveloce continues the Lamborghini tradition of SV models, pushing the boundaries in terms of performance and pure driving emotion," says Automobili Lamborghini president and CEO Stephan Winkelmann.

"With technological features which, combined with design, quality standards and craftsmanship, the Superveloce results in the most exclusive, pure and emotional production model in the history of our brand."